Former Kaizer Chiefs defender and South Africa legend Lucas Radebe believes time is up for the current South African Football Association leadership under its President, Danny Jordaan.
Safa has been under the limelight for alleged corruption and mismanagement of funds, which has seen Jordaan questioned by the authorities on several occasions. Recently, the federation was summoned by the Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture in parliament to respond to claims of poor governance and financial issues.
There were concerns about unequal salaries for national team coaches and the failure to attract sponsorships. Despite the grave issues, Jordaan is still chasing another term as Safa head, something which does not go down well with Radebe.
‘Jordaan not supposed to be there'
“[Danny leaving] I think it’s long overdue, I mean it shows what’s been happening all along. But I believe that there are leaders out there. I think it’s all about giving people a chance. You know, let’s get together, let’s see who can take it on,” he told the media.
“He was not supposed to be there anyway. But obviously, they are saying that they don’t see somebody who will succeed him at the moment. I mean it’s all politics.
“But I believe that there is a lot that we can do and there’s a lot that can be accomplished, especially with the level of football that we play, it shows where we are lacking. Leave the football on the field and stuff, but go upstairs, that’s where the change needs to be,” he added.
‘A change will happen, and I think soon'
Radebe had initially shown his interest in the top seat but was knocked out on technicalities. He is, however, adamant that soon he will be having a say in Mzansi football.
“I’ve always wanted to go back. I’ve always wanted to be part of South African football at a stage where we can make a difference and an impact. I mean we’ve served the country for so long, and vice versa.
“They’ve done us well to get us where we are. So why can’t you give us a chance to serve as well what we love most, and try and get football to the level that it’s supposed to be at. I think the most important thing is that we unite as ex-footballers, come together and agree and share the same vision. I know there are those technicalities about you have to be on the LFA and stuff like that, but we are at the LFAs.
“But I think they’ll always find something just to lock the gates and lock us out, but I believe that it will happen, a change will happen, and I think soon,” Radebe concluded.
